A unit manager overhears two nurses discussing a client with AIDS in a hall filled with visitors. What should be the nurse manager's initial action?

• A. Have a conference with the nurses and talk about the need for confidentiality
• B. File a formal complaint with human resources
• C. Immediately suspend the nurses
• D. Notify the patient and family

Answer: (B)

Protecting patient confidentiality and enforcing policy requires formal action when a breach is observed. The nurse manager should file a formal complaint with human resources so there is an official record, an investigation can be started, and appropriate corrective action can be taken. This approach ensures accountability, consistency, and protections for patient privacy moving forward. Addressing the nurses about confidentiality is important for education, but it does not initiate formal policy enforcement. Suspending staff without due process is inappropriate as an initial step, and notifying the patient or family about the staff discussion is not the correct first response and could cause additional issues.